Bean Burgers

Who doesn't love an outdoor grilling party? Rooftop decks, backyard patios, they seem to pop up all the time. And while those of us who don't eat meat could pick up a package of veggie burgers on the way, I think the homemade kind are much tastier. This recipe is the result of a quest to find a burger with a not-too-crumbly, not-too-soggy consistency that would stay together on the grill. Plus, they give you a great response to the all-too-frequent question of "BUT IF YOU DON'T EAT MEAT, HOW DO YOU GET YOUR PROTEIN??!!!"

Bean Burgers (makes 4-5 large burgers)

1 can of any beans, drained and rinsed (I've used kidney, but I think black would be great also)
½ cup walnuts
½ onion (any kind)
½ cup TVP, reconstituted according to the directions (Not familiar with TVP? Change that.)
1½ Tbs. horseradish
1 Tbs. liquid smoke
½ cup wheat germ or oat bran
½ cup flour

Chop the walnuts in a food processor. Add the beans and blend until they form a paste. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until it is thoroughly mixed. Shape into patties. Your burgers are now ready for grilling or indoor cooking - just heat up some oil in a pan and cook until browned on each side.

Not sure what the verdict is on the best way to store leftovers. I wrap them well and freeze them raw but I have also heard of people cooking all of the burgers and then freezing them cooked.